Potato pancakes are a traditional delicacy with roots in the peasant cuisine of several countries, where potatoes have been a staple food for centuries. This recipe, originating from Eastern Europe and adapted in Latin America, has traveled and evolved, becoming a common dish in countries like Argentina, Chile, Mexico, and Colombia.
In different regions of Latin America, potato pancakes go by various names. For instance, in Mexico they are simply known as "tortitas de papa," while in Chile they are often called "panqueques de papa" or "tortillas de papa," depending on the preparation. They are also very popular in Argentina and Uruguay and are part of family celebrations and home-cooked meals. Their versatility and simplicity make them enjoyable in both savory and sweet meals, adapting to different tastes and accompaniments.
This dish is a clear example of how a simple ingredient like the potato can be transformed into a rich, nutritious, and very tasty meal, accompanying both main courses and desserts with a special touch.
How to Make Potato Pancakes
Ingredients: Potatoes, water, lemon juice, egg, milk, salt, and vegetable oil.
To begin, grate the raw potatoes into water to which lemon juice has been added. This helps prevent the potatoes from oxidizing and losing their color.
Then, place the grated potatoes in a colander or cheesecloth and drain the liquid. It is important to remove as much liquid as possible to achieve a firm batter.
Drain the grated potatoes very well before continuing to the next step.
Next, beat the raw and cooked potatoes together with the egg, milk, and salt, forming a homogeneous batter.
In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil. Using three teaspoons of oil per batch, drop the batter to form 3 or 4 pancakes at a time in the hot oil.
When the pancakes are firm on the bottom, carefully loosen the edges and flip to brown the other side.
Once browned, remove the pancakes and drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil, keeping them warm.
Continue cooking until all the batter is used.
Serve immediately to enjoy their best texture and flavor.
If served with meat, it is recommended to sprinkle them with a little salt. On the other hand, if accompanied by applesauce, they can be sprinkled with sugar for a sweet touch.
